After you are involved in a car wreck, it may seem natural to apologize to the other driver if you think you are in the wrong. However, it is this tendency to say you’re “sorry” that may make it difficult, if not impossible, to receive an insurance settlement. Apologizing for an accident you only think you caused is not a good idea, because until a complete investigation has happened, you cannot say with certainty that your actions were the only causing factor of the crash. Thus, it is best to stay silent.
Here's why apologizing after an accident is a bad decision:
Apologizing After a Car Wreck Could Be Seen as Admitting Fault
Admitting fault after an accident is never a good idea. Not only will it hurt your reputation, it may limit your ability to obtain compensation. If you apologize to the other driver, the insurance company willl see this as an admission of guilt. Thus, they will have an opportunity to deny your claim and refuse to provide the compensation you need for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, vehicle damage, and other expenses.
You May Not Actually Be Responsible
Apologizing after an accident will make it sound like you were solely to blame for the crash. However, an investigation by professionals may prove otherwise. Environmental conditions or factors that you were not aware of could have contributed to the accident. Thus, you should avoid admitting guilt, because it may turn out that you are not to blame at all.
What Should You Do Instead?
Apologizing after a crash seems to be a natural response of many people. However, if you are involved in an accident, you should monitor your words and avoid using apologetic language, such as, “I’m sorry, I didn’t see you,” or “I made a mistake.” Instead, when talking to the police or others, you should describe the facts of the crash without admitting fault.
It is important to note that your statement could be used against you in court. The insurance company will do everything it can to avoid paying what you deserve, so you sholuld watch what you say. By being honest and thorough about the facts of the accident without apologizing, you can protect yourself from accusations of guilt after a crash.
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Goeing Goeing & McQuinn provides efficient legal assistance to clients who have been hurt by the negligence or recklessness of others. If you were injured in a car accident, we can provide tenacious representation and uphold your right to a settlement. Our team of Lexington car accident attorneys can conduct an investigation into the accident and gather evidence. We will communicate with you and help you make informed legal decisions from start to finish.
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